Pakistan Urges UN to Preserve Peacekeeping Amid Budget Cuts

UNITED NATIONS: Pakistan has issued a strong warning to the United Nations, urging it not to compromise its peacekeeping operations due to financial constraints and budget cuts. The call comes as the UN faces significant financial and political pressures, which could jeopardize its ability to maintain international peace and security.

The UN General Assembly recently approved a $5.1 billion budget for peacekeeping operations for the 2026-27 period, reflecting a 10 percent reduction from the previous year’s allocation. This funding crisis has already forced the UN to cut mission expenditures and repatriate a quarter of its uniformed personnel from various peacekeeping missions, raising concerns about the effectiveness of these operations.

Pakistan’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador Syed Haider Shah, emphasized the need for reforms that enhance the effectiveness of peacekeeping without diminishing the essential capabilities required to fulfill its mandates. He warned that any reduction in resources could severely undermine the UN’s role in conflict resolution and stabilization efforts worldwide.

Looking ahead, the international community is expected to engage in discussions regarding potential reforms and funding strategies to ensure that peacekeeping missions remain robust and effective. Pakistan’s proactive stance highlights its commitment to global peace and security, urging the UN to prioritize these operations despite financial challenges.